A multimodal sensing network based on synergistically sensitized polyaniline composites strategy for safety monitoring in pesticide spraying

Abstract

Ensuring the safety of farmers during pesticide spraying is crucial in smart agricultural practices due to the potential risks of pesticide poison and the associated irreversible damages. However, there is a notable deficiency of efficient monitoring strategies for providing timely and cost-effective safety warnings. In this study, we have devised an advanced and real-time sensing network using polyaniline (PANI) composites to address this pressing concern. To enhance sensing performance, diverse quantum dots (QDs) sensitizers and rigid or flexible substrates are strategically integrated with PANI, resulting in sensors tailored to different sensing capabilities. Specifically, the proton conduction is heightened by incorporating carboxyl graphene QDs (GQDs) into PANI, obtaining the superior gas-sensing performance for NH3 detection. Moreover, a strain sensor employing Ti3C2Tx QDs (MQDs) and a flexible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) substrate has been developed for real-time monitoring of physical biosignals. Finally, a smart sensing network with real-time display integrated with the above sensors is designed to detection NH3 concentration released from pesticide volatilization and physiological tracking in cases of mild pesticide poisoning. This sensing network can wirelessly interface with a laptop for convenient safety monitoring of farmers engaged in smart agriculture. The proof of concept demonstrated by this sensing network holds promise for enhancing safety monitoring in smart agriculture.